God's Chosen Fast
Isaiah 58:6-7 (KJV)
"Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?"
Five Spiritual Reasons to Fast
Spiritual Breakthrough: Fasting helps break strongholds and brings spiritual liberation.
Deepening Intimacy with God: It fosters a closer, more personal relationship with the Lord.
Guidance and Direction: Fasting aligns our hearts with God's will, making His guidance clearer.
Intercession for Others: It amplifies our prayers for others, bringing their needs before God.
Personal Renewal: Fasting leads to spiritual purification, renewing our minds and spirits.
Characters and Their Fasting Stories
1. Praying Hyde
- John Hyde, known as "Praying Hyde," was a missionary in India who became renowned for his powerful and fervent prayers. He often fasted and prayed for the salvation of souls, dedicating days and nights to intercession. His prayers resulted in numerous conversions and spiritual awakenings across India. Hyde's deep commitment to fasting and prayer exemplified his intense devotion to God and his mission. His fasting and prayer life led to many revivals and a profound impact on the Christian community in India.
2. John Knox
- John Knox was a Scottish Reformer who fervently prayed and fasted for the reformation of the church in Scotland. He famously prayed, "Give me Scotland, or I die!" His prayers and efforts were instrumental in the establishment of Presbyterianism in Scotland. Through his fasting and intercession, Knox saw significant religious and political changes that aligned the nation more closely with Reformed principles. His relentless prayer and fasting showcased his unwavering faith and dedication to God's will for his country.
3. Rev. Franklin Hall
- Rev. Franklin Hall was an American minister known for his teachings on fasting and prayer. He wrote extensively about the benefits of fasting in his book "Atomic Power with God through Fasting and Prayer." His concepts on fasting influenced many Christians to seek deeper spiritual experiences and divine power. Hall's teachings emphasized the importance of fasting for spiritual breakthroughs and miracles. His ministry saw many testimonies of healing and deliverance as a result of his teachings on fasting and prayer.
4. Oral Roberts
- Oral Roberts was a well-known evangelist who fasted and prayed for the success of his ministry and the founding of Oral Roberts University. He believed in the power of prayer and fasting to achieve God's vision for his life. Through his dedication to fasting, Roberts saw tremendous growth in his ministry, including the establishment of a major university. His fasting and prayer life were integral to his success and the fulfillment of his God-given mission. His ministry impacted millions, emphasizing the importance of faith, healing, and education.
5. Lou Engle
- Lou Engle is a modern-day prayer warrior known for his fasting and prayer initiatives, particularly The Call, a series of prayer and fasting gatherings. Engle's dedication to fasting has inspired thousands to join in intercessory prayer for revival and spiritual awakening in America. His efforts have led to significant movements of prayer and repentance across the nation. Engle's commitment to fasting and prayer has sparked spiritual renewal and unity among believers, emphasizing the power of collective intercession.
6. Pastor Jerry Falwell
- Pastor Jerry Falwell was a prominent evangelical leader who fasted and prayed for the growth of his church, Thomas Road Baptist Church, and the establishment of Liberty University. His fasting and prayer were crucial in the rapid expansion and success of both institutions. Falwell's commitment to fasting demonstrated his reliance on God's guidance and provision. His ministry had a lasting impact on Christian education and the evangelical community in America.
7. Rev. Al Sharpton
- Rev. Al Sharpton is a civil rights activist who has used fasting as a tool for social justice. He has fasted to bring attention to issues such as police brutality, racial injustice, and economic inequality. Sharpton's fasting and prayer have been a form of protest and a call for change, aligning his spiritual convictions with his activism. His efforts have raised awareness and prompted action on critical social issues, showcasing the power of fasting as a catalyst for justice and reform.
Conclusion
Prayer and fasting are powerful spiritual disciplines that have shaped the lives and ministries of many individuals throughout history. From biblical figures like Daniel and Esther to modern-day leaders like Praying Hyde and John Knox, fasting has been a crucial tool for seeking God's intervention and guidance. These stories demonstrate that fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is about drawing closer to God, seeking His will, and aligning our lives with His purpose. Whether it is for personal renewal, intercession for others, or social justice, fasting combined with prayer can lead to profound spiritual breakthroughs and divine answers. Let us embrace the discipline of fasting with the same fervor and faith as these remarkable individuals, trusting that God hears and answers our prayers.
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